Understanding vitamin B12 and folate deficiency. (2nd February 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Perry, Margaret
• Is Part Of: Practice nursing. Volume 31:Number 2(2020)
• Page Start: 70
• Page End: 74
• Publication Date: 2020-02-02
• Subjects: Vitamin B12 -- Vitamin B 12 deficiency -- Folic acid deficiency -- Pernicious anaemia; Nursing -- Practice -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; 610.730941
• DOI: 10.12968/pnur.2020.31.2.70
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0964-9271

Abstract

Abstract : Vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies are common and have a big impact on sufferers' lives. Margaret Perry provides an overview of the causes of, and treatments for, these conditions Vitamin B12 and folate are essential for a number of physiological functions in the body. Deficiency of vitamin B12 is relatively common and prevalence increases with age. Folate deficiency is less common, but still clinically significant. Diagnosis can often be problematic as many of the symptoms patients present with are shared with other conditions and can easily be attributed to other causes. Mild deficiency of B12 may cause no symptoms until it has progressed to be more severe. Interpretation of B12 levels is extremely difficult as there is no clinically normal level. Diagnosis can be easily overlooked, but correct treatment has the ability to transform sufferer's lives in terms of improving energy levels and preventing further complications.